Deceptively tricky DIY projects
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Every DIY-er has different skills and knowledge, but what all DIY-ers have in common is a will and want to do things themselves. But there are some things that most DIY-ers alike will say needs a professional to do it. As with everything, there's always going to be exceptions to the rule but these particular DIY activities are the most challenging.
Drywalling or concrete rendering
This task is all in the wrist. Almost impossible to get right in the first goes, and you'll waste a lot of materials trying to perfect your technique.
Fence building
There might be DIY kits available and plans, measurements and tools, but nothing will prepare you for the individuality of your particular property, different soil, rocks in annoying places, trees and shrubs, extreme digging and also the complexities of where to put the materials while you're building the fence…
Building a deck
If you've strong carpentry and design skills, you'll probably be alright, but even with DIY kits you'll find that decks are harder than you initially think.
Anything plumbing or electrical
Stay away from plumbing and electrical work - the results could be terrible! You need licences for plumbing and electrical work for a reason.
Changing or removing load bearing walls
You need a permit to remove a load bearing wall anyway, and you won't get one without plans or working drawings and engineers comps. There are hidden costs and dangers of removing load bearing walls.
For the ambitious, just remember that there's one last reason you might want to think twice about doing the work yourself - house value.
Repairs and renovations done by an amateur often look like an amateur did them, so while you might get pleasure out of the slight curve in the wall or the 'character' of the fence, prospective home buyers won't.
To find a professional, simply post a job here.
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